Stratman is an artist of constant growth and movement. Regular journeys between her studios in the US and Australia reflect core themes throughout her works. Raised in Phoenix and residing in Melbourne, Stratman is prolific in her representations of universal issues such as belonging, and connectedness to one’s environment.
Her sculptures often incorporate genderless, faceless figures, turning the primary focus to the interplay between human and nature. Her bronze representations of human anatomy and plant forms are particularly celebrated and she is uncompromising with regard to the quality and integrity of her interpretations. Yet her works are neither intrusive nor ambiguous; there is a fine balance at play and Stratman is known for her ability to convey poignancy via subtlety. In her Graft Series, for example, emotion appears latent in featureless figures that emerge seamlessly from plant limbs. However, a delicate contrast in posture or the gentle tilt of a head suddenly evokes context and point of view, allowing Stratman’s audience to consider and identify with individual perspective and voice. The result is pure connection.
Memorable art often prompts curiosity regarding the artist’s source of inspiration and personal creative processes. This prize-winning artist evidently draws inspiration from her native and adopted countries; the diversities as well as similarities of the landscape, art and culture are ever-present threads throughout her work. Stratman’s explorations across two continents, coupled with an interest in quantum theory, clearly contribute to her success in depicting subject matter at both the universal and subatomic level.
Stratman’s craft is labour-intensive and multi-facetted; her studios are in constant flux with sculptural works at their many and varied stages. This sculptor is adept. Her use of age-old processes to mould, weld, hammer, grind and polish is also testimony to the passion that brings these sculptures into meaningful being. During the process, thought-provoking lyrics by a broad range of musicians provide focus as well as inspiration. While these artists sing of lost seasons or love, or nature and humanity, Stratman textures another tree limb or gives voice to another faceless figure.
It is not surprising that commissions for Stratman’s sculptures span the private and public sectors. Equally, recognition and exhibition of her works extends well beyond the local level. Jennyfer Stratman’s works are currently exhibited in private collections and public galleries throughout Australia, North America, Asia and the United Kingdom.
Lena Pasqua 2013
Author of Choir of Burning Candles